What is an advantage of petroleum-based hydraulic fluids?

Petroleum-based hydraulic fluids are widely used in various industrial applications primarily due to their availability and cost-effectiveness. These fluids are derived from crude oil, which is a readily accessible natural resource. This ease of access contributes to a stable supply chain and generally lower costs compared to alternative hydraulic fluids, such as those derived from synthetic or biodegradable sources.

The cost-effectiveness of petroleum-based fluids allows businesses to manage operational expenses better while still achieving the necessary performance characteristics for hydraulic systems. Their widespread availability means that equipment maintenance and fluid replacement can be done without significant delays or complications associated with sourcing specialized fluids.

While other choices could have specific advantages in certain scenarios—like thermal conductivity and viscosity—none match the combination of general availability and affordability that petroleum-based hydraulic fluids offer in industrial settings.